
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
1. Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, originated in Durban but a must-try in Pietermaritzburg at Johnny's Place.
- Spiciness Level: Adjustable to suit your taste buds.
- Portion Size: Generous servings for a filling meal.
- Authentic Experience: A true South African culinary experience.
2. Boerewors Roll
A traditional South African sausage wrapped in a roll with onions, tomato sauce, and mustard, often enjoyed at The Pig and Whistle.
- Flavorful Filler: The boerewors sausage is a delightful blend of spices.
- Convenient Portion: A perfect meal for on-the-go travelers.
- Local Atmosphere: Enjoy the roll in a lively, friendly environment.
3. Rooibos Tea
A popular South African herbal tea made from the leaves of the rooibos plant, best tasted at The Tea Merchant.
- Health Benefits: Rumored to have numerous health benefits.
- Unique Taste: A mildly sweet, earthy flavor.
- Relaxing Experience: Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
4. Bobotie Pie
A spiced minced meat dish baked with an egg and milk topping, available at various restaurants like The Little Bakery.
- Flavorful Layers: Each layer offers a unique taste.
- Traditional Dish: A staple in South African cuisine.
- Portion Size: Ideal for sharing or saving leftovers.
5. Sosaties
Marinated strips of meat threaded onto skewers and slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce, often found at the local market.
- Exotic Flavor Profile: A unique mix of spices gives it an exotic taste.
- Portable Snack: Easy to carry and eat on-the-go.
- Affordable Delight: A budget-friendly choice for travelers.
6. Pietermaritzburg Pie
A traditional pie filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, a must-try at The Old Biscuit Mill.
- Hearty Meal: Perfect for a satisfying lunch.
- Unique Local Version: A spin on the classic meat pie.
- Popular Choice: One of Pietermaritzburg's favorite dishes.
7. Curry Durban Style
A mild, creamy curry made with potatoes, beans, and various spices, best enjoyed at Cane Cutters.
- Creamy Texture: The sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Mild Spiciness: Perfect for those who prefer a less spicy curry.
- Served with Rice: Comes with fragrant basmati rice.
8. Peri-Peri Chicken
Marinated chicken cooked in a spicy peri-peri sauce, popular at Nando's.
- Spicy Kick: Varying levels of heat to suit your preference.
- Flavorful Marinade: A unique blend of herbs and spices.
- Fast Service: Quick meal for busy travelers.
9. Pap and Wors
Maize porridge (pap) served with boerewors sausage, typically found at local braais.
- Comfort Food: A warm and comforting meal.
- Traditional Pairing: Pap and boerewors is a classic South African combination.
- Affordable Option: A budget-friendly meal for travelers.
10. Malva Pudding
A sweet dessert made with apricot jam, batter, and custard sauce, best enjoyed at The Oasis Restaurant.
- Sweet Treat: The perfect ending to a meal.
- Homemade Taste: Made fresh daily in local eateries.
- Rich Flavor: A decadent, indulgent dessert.
11. Bobotie Pie Variation
A variation of bobotie pie made with a coconut-milk topping and served at The Curry Farm.
- Unique Spin: A creative twist on the traditional bobotie pie.
- Creamy Topping: The coconut-milk topping adds a unique flavor.
- Hearty Portion: Generous servings for a filling meal.
12. Vetkoek with Chakalaka
Deep-fried dough balls served with a spicy vegetable relish, often enjoyed at street food vendors.
- Portable Snack: Easy to eat on-the-go.
- Spicy Combo: The chakalaka adds a nice spicy kick.
- Affordable Option: A budget-friendly choice for travelers.
13. Mieliepap and Smoked Fish
Cornmeal porridge (mieliepap) served with smoked fish, a typical dish found at local eateries.
- Comfort Food: A warm and comforting meal.
- Traditional Pairing: A classic South African combination.
- Fish Variety: Taste various types of smoked fish.
14. Milk Tart
A sweet pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with cinnamon, best enjoyed at Woolworths Cafe.
- Sweet Treat: The perfect ending to a meal.
- Homemade Taste: Made fresh daily in local eateries.
- Rich Flavor: A decadent, indulgent dessert.
15. Rooibos-infused Desserts
Various desserts infused with rooibos tea, like Rooibos Creme Brulee at The Tea Merchant's Cafe.
- Unique Flavor Profile: A blend of sweet and earthy flavors.
- Health Benefits: Rumored to have numerous health benefits.
- Relaxing Experience: Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.